VI DEDICATION. 



works, such as they are, the public have now before them, the evi- 

 dences of natural religion, the evidences of revealed religion, and an 

 account of the duties that result from both. It is of small importance, 

 tJuit tliey have been written in an order, the very reverse of that in 

 which they ought to be read. I commend therefore the present vol- 

 ume to your Lordship's protection, not only as, in all probability, my 

 last labour, but as the completion of a consistent and comprehensive 

 design. 



Hitherto, my Lord, I have been speaking of myself and not of my 

 Patron. Your Lordship wants not the testimonyof a dedication, nor any 

 testimony trom me : I consult therefore the impulse of my own mind 

 alone when I declare, that in no respect has my intercourse with your 

 Lordship been more gratifying to me, than in the opportunities, which 

 it has afforded me, of observing your earnest, active, and unwearied 

 solicitude, for the advancement of substantial Christianity : a solici- 

 tude, nevertheless, accompanied wuth that candour of mind, which suf- 

 fers no subordinate differences of opinion, when there is a coincidence 

 in the main intention and object, to produce an alienation of esteem, 

 or diminution of favour. It is fortunate for a country, and honourable 

 to its government, when qualities and dispositions like these are placed 

 in high and influential stations. Such is the sincere judgment which 

 I have formed of your Lordship's character, and of its pubUc value: 

 my personal obligations I can never forget. Under a due sense of 

 both these considerations, I beg leave to subscribe myself, with great 

 respect and gratitude, 



My Lord, 



Your Lordship's faithful ^ 

 And most devoted servant, 



WILLIAM PALEY. 



BishojJ- Wearmoiith, July, 1802. 



